Danielle Smith to Unveil Immigration Policy in Thursday’s Televised Address
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is set to unveil new immigration policies during a televised address on Thursday night. This comes just one week before her government’s budget announcement. The address is anticipated to shed light on how the province plans to navigate economic challenges posed by declining oil prices.
Immigration Policy Focus
In recent months, Premier Smith has indicated a desire to reform immigration policies in Alberta. During an unrelated news conference, she mentioned that she would address new actions regarding immigration access to social services for non-residents.
Key Issues Raised
Immigration has emerged as a prominent concern for the United Conservative Party (UCP) government. The Premier highlighted that residents voiced immigration as the “number one” issue during the Alberta Next panels held last summer. These town hall events aimed to assess public opinion on the province’s relationship with the federal government.
- Rapid population growth has increased Alberta’s expenses.
- Declining oil revenues are impacting the provincial budget.
- Non-taxpayers using government services are causing social tensions.
Smith emphasized the principle that taxpayer status should precede access to public services. She remarked, “The social contract that we have is that you have to be a taxpayer before you start using our services, and we’ve had the reverse.”
Proposed Changes
While immigration falls under federal jurisdiction, suggestions from the Alberta Next Panel propose a review of social services for certain migrants. There is also discussion about introducing a provincial certificate of immigration.
The influx of new residents to Alberta, influenced by the UCP’s successful “Alberta is Calling” ad campaign, has resulted in many seeking a better quality of life coupled with tax incentives. Smith’s upcoming address, scheduled to begin at 6:45 p.m. MT, is expected to lay the groundwork for these anticipated changes in immigration policy.
